By: Ruichen Feng
As a member of the Capital Youth Outreach Club (CYOC), I began volunteering in May to teach English to senior Chinese learners—many of whom had little prior experience with either English or online learning. What began as a weekly commitment soon became a deeply meaningful journey that reshaped my understanding of communication, empathy, and the true spirit of education.
For many of the students, the challenge was twofold: learning a new language while also navigating unfamiliar technology. Tasks that seem simple—joining an online class, unmuting, or switching audio settings—often took multiple explanations and lots of patience. I learned to slow down, break things into smaller steps, and above all, remain calm and encouraging. Without video or facial cues, all interaction relied on voice, which made clear pronunciation, pacing, and repetition even more critical.
The students’ enthusiasm was what kept me going. They weren’t looking to master grammar—they wanted to use English in real life: to describe the weather, shop at a store, or communicate at the airport. This practical, goal-oriented mindset shaped how I teach lessons. Each session became focused on real-world scenarios, using repetition and role play to build confidence and familiarity. We didn’t just learn words—we practiced using them to connect, to ask, to respond, and to be understood.
What struck me most was the students’ persistence. Some joined from quiet rooms, others from noisy cars or busy homes. Regardless of background or setting, they showed up—ready to learn, to struggle, and to try again. Their commitment was humbling. Many were older adults who had never used Zoom before, yet they were not deterred. I could feel their desire to grow, to communicate with the world around them, and to stay connected across generations and cultures.
This experience taught me that teaching is not just about transferring knowledge—it’s about building trust, meeting people where they are, and growing together. I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the barriers older adults face, especially when isolated by language or technology. It reminded me how important inclusive, accessible education is—especially for those who are often left behind.
While the process wasn’t always smooth, it proved something powerful: learning has no age limit. With patience, encouragement, and a willingness to meet challenges together, transformation is always possible—not just for the students, but for the teacher as well.
Website Editor: Grace Yan
华府青年 CYOC 